De Bruin’s Appeal With CAS

LAUSANNE, Switzerland- Michelle de Bruin and FINA battled it out as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) heard the Irish Olympic champion’s appeal against a four-year ban.

FINA imposed the ban in August 1998 after finding de Bruin guilty of tampering with her urine sample, which was found to contain lethal levels of alcohol. FINA lawyer Jean-Pierre Morand told the CAS that FINA was sure its doping test procedures had been correct. He dismissed de Bruin’s argument that the sample could have been altered by a third party.

Officials at the court, which is the highest level of sports justice, expect the hearing to conclude on Tuesday. The panel could then issue its verdict immediately but may also decide to take more time for deliberation.